Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca

If you’re thinking about taking a boat tour along Cyprus’s coast, the Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca offers a decent way to see some highlights while enjoying a relaxed day on the water. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on plenty of reviews and the detailed itinerary, it seems like a solid choice if you’re after a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and good food.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines iconic sights like the Zenobia shipwreck and Cape Greco with laid-back activities like swimming and snorkeling. Plus, the buffet lunch and open bar mean you can enjoy the day without constantly worrying about finding food or drinks. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a group tour, so it might feel a bit crowded or noisy depending on the crowd and the mood of the crew.

This tour tends to suit travelers who want a half-day adventure that hits the main coastal sights without too much hassle. If you’re someone who loves being on the water, appreciates beautiful views, and enjoys socializing over good food and drinks, it could be just what you’re looking for. But if you’re after a more intimate or personalized experience, or are particularly sensitive to crowds, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Includes transportation: Most hotel pickups make logistics easy.
• Multiple stops for swimming: Plenty of chances to cool off and snorkel.
• Great for those who enjoy food and drinks: Buffet lunch and open bar included.
• Sightseeing highlights: Zenobia wreck, Love Bridge, Cape Greco, and sea caves.
• Tour length: About 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
• Group size: Up to 150 travelers, so expect a lively atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Odyssey Boat Safari Experience

When considering a boat tour in Cyprus, a key factor is what you actually get for your money. This cruise from Larnaca offers a mixture of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. The price is roughly $87 per person, which might sound a bit steep at first glance, but when you factor in the included buffet and open bar, it offers decent value—especially if you love the idea of a social, all-in-one day out.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off at Larnaca Marina at 9:00 am, with the convenience of pick-up from most hotels. That’s a definite plus if you prefer not to worry about arranging transport. After boarding, you’ll head out on the water, with the first stop being the famous Zenobia shipwreck. This Swedish cargo ferry sank in 1980 and is considered one of the top ten wrecks worldwide, making it a highlight for snorkelers and divers alike.

The Zenobia Shipwreck

This is often the main reason people sign up for the tour. From the reviews, it seems the shipwreck is impressive and accessible for swimming and snorkeling, giving you a chance to see the underwater life and the wreck itself up close. You get about 30 minutes here, which is enough to get a good look, though some travelers, like one reviewer, mentioned the experience was “not the boat that was advertised,” but still enjoyable thanks to friendly staff.

Coastal Highlights and Sea Caves

Next, the boat heads along the coastline, passing by some of Cyprus’s most scenic spots. One of these is the Love Bridge, a natural rock formation, and the Pirate Caves, which have historical intrigue—used in old times by pirates and smugglers. You’ll have a swim and photo stop at the Sea Caves and the Blue Lagoon, both picturesque spots perfect for capturing memories or just relaxing in a beautiful setting. The 30-minute stop is enough for a quick dip and photos, and you might find it’s the most Instagrammable part of the trip.

Approaching Protaras and Famagusta

The tour continues past one of Cyprus’s most famous beaches and heads towards Famagusta, where you’ll get some insight into the ghost town area. This part is more about sightseeing and less about stopping, but it adds a historical layer to the day.

End at Kalamies Beach and Return

The cruise wraps up at Kalamies Beach in Protaras, where you can enjoy some free time before being transferred back to Larnaca. This final stop is a relaxing way to soak up the Mediterranean sun before heading back. The overall duration is approximately five hours, making it suitable for a morning or early afternoon activity.

What You Can Expect Onboard

The boat is equipped with full facilities—sunbeds, snorkeling gear, and amenities—so you can relax comfortably. The buffet lunch is a major highlight, featuring fruits and a selection of dishes that travelers say are delicious and satisfying. The open bar includes soft drinks, lemonade, coffee, tea, zivania (a local spirit), and wine—so whether you want a refreshing sip or a glass of wine, it’s all covered.

The Crew and Atmosphere

From reviews, the crew generally gets high marks for friendliness and professionalism. One traveler noted that, despite minor issues with the animation and announcements, the staff ensured everyone had a good time. However, some found the onboard entertainment a bit overbearing or loud, which might not suit all tastes. The tour can be lively and bustling, especially with up to 150 guests, so if you prefer a quieter experience, this might be something to consider.

The Price and Overall Value

At about $87 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out, including transportation, food, drinks, and activities. Many reviews praised the organization and value for the price, especially for those who enjoy socializing and sightseeing in one package. One traveler mentioned that, despite booking in error, it turned out to be “easily one of our favorite parts of the trip,” highlighting how enjoyable the experience can be.

Considerations and Downsides

One consistent issue mentioned in reviews is the transport back to your hotel. A few travelers reported not having arrangements for transportation after the tour, especially if they booked online and weren’t part of the hotel pickup. It’s worth confirming your transport options beforehand.

Weather can also influence the experience, as the tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who would this tour suit?

This boat safari is ideal for travelers looking for a fun, social way to see Cyprus’s coast, especially if they enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and good food. It’s perfect if you want a structured half-day with all the logistics handled, so you can just relax and enjoy the views.

If you’re traveling solo, you’ll find plenty of other guests to mingle with, and families or groups of friends will appreciate the mix of activities and the lively atmosphere. However, if you’re after a more tranquil or private experience, or if you’re sensitive to crowds or noise, you might prefer a different way to explore the coast.

Final thoughts

The Odyssey Boat Safari from Larnaca makes for an engaging way to explore Cyprus’s stunning coastline. The stops at the Zenobia wreck, sea caves, and Blue Lagoon are definitely highlights, providing plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, and snorkeling. The buffet and open bar add to the relaxed vibe, making it a good way to unwind and socialize.

While it’s not perfect—there are occasional complaints about crowding and communication—most travelers find it well-organized and enjoyable. If you’re after a lively, all-in-one day out with gorgeous scenery, good food, and some underwater adventure, this tour is worth considering.

Just remember to confirm your transportation after the tour if you haven’t booked hotel pickup, and be prepared for a lively group experience with lots of fellow travelers. Overall, it’s a dependable choice for those wanting a memorable coastal day in Cyprus.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Most hotel pickups are offered, making it easy to get on board without extra hassle.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say the Zenobia shipwreck is the star attraction, offering great snorkeling and photo opportunities.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, which fits nicely into a morning or early afternoon plan.

Are drinks and food included?
Yes, there’s a buffet lunch, fruits, and an open bar with soft drinks, wine, and local spirit zivania.

Can I swim at the stops?
Absolutely, the stops at the sea caves, Blue Lagoon, and wreck site are designed for swimming and snorkeling.

Is there any sightseeing beyond the coast?
Yes, the tour gives a glimpse of Famagusta’s ghost town area and passes by scenic beaches and caves.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather conditions can cause cancellations, but you will either get a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the activities are generally safe for older children who enjoy swimming and boat trips.

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic, and sociable way to explore Cyprus’s coastline, the Odyssey Boat Safari offers a solid option. It balances sightseeing, swimming, and good food in a way that most travelers seem to appreciate. Just keep expectations in check regarding crowds and weather, and you’re likely to have a memorable day on the water.